Transformed street stray into prosperous entrepreneur:
In the world of fastening and assembly technology, the Berner Group is making significant strides, thanks to strategic logistics investments and a focus on eCommerce. The company, which generates 1.15 billion euros in sales (fiscal year 2023/2024), employs around 8,000 people worldwide.
Founded by Albert Berner, the company has seen remarkable growth, particularly in the 2023/2024 fiscal year, with over 50% growth rates in markets such as Italy, Poland, and Portugal. This success can be attributed to the company's strategic expansion, including the opening of sales branches in urban areas and metropolitan regions, such as Valencia, Rennes, and the Azores.
Albert Berner, now 90 years old, has been a trailblazer in the industry. His son, Christian Berner, who took over the company's reins in 2012, has continued this legacy. In 2016, Christian moved parts of the holding and management to Cologne.
The Berner Group is renowned for its commitment to workplace safety and efficiency. With more processes running automatically due to logistics investments, distances are shortened, and workplace safety is improved. Around 5,000 field staff provide personal customer advice on site, ensuring a high level of service.
The company's focus on eCommerce is paying off, with over 35% of sales coming from this channel in several countries. This shift towards digital sales has been instrumental in the company's international expansion.
Albert Berner's professional journey was significantly influenced by Adolf Würth, who served as a mentor. The two men share a personal story: they met their respective spouses on a sales tour at Lake Constance.
In addition to his business achievements, Albert Berner has made significant contributions to society. He founded the Albert Berner Foundation in 1995, which supports various projects, many in the social sector. Albert Berner was also appointed "Knight of the Legion of Honour" by France in 2004 and has been an honorary citizen of his hometown, Künzelsau, since 2012.
The Berner Group, a billion-dollar company, is currently investing around 10 million euros in logistics, with half of the investments going to the Künzelsau site. Albert Berner, grateful for his mentorship, continues to express his appreciation for Adolf Würth's influence. Christian Berner, now living in Cologne and working at the Rheinauhafen, continues to lead the company with the same vision and dedication as his father.
This Saturday, Albert Berner will celebrate his 90th birthday in a small circle with family and friends, with a larger celebration planned for the following Monday at the headquarters on the Garnberg in Künzelsau. The Berner Group's success story continues, driven by its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer service.
- Christian Berner, as an entrepreneur, has successfully led the Berner Group since 2012, building upon his father's legacy and achievements.
- Personal finance management has been an essential aspect of Albert Berner's career journey, with significant contributions made through the Albert Berner Foundation, supporting various projects, including many in the social sector.
- The Berner Group's focus on business expansion, including strategic logistics investments, a shift towards eCommerce, and the opening of sales branches, has contributed to its remarkable growth and international success.
- Investing in real-estate, such as the move of parts of the holding and management to Cologne, has been a strategic move for the Berner Group, aligning with their vision for growth and success.
- As the Berner Group continues to thrive, with over 35% of sales coming from eCommerce, the company is working on reinvesting in logistics, allocating €10 million for the same, particularly at their Künzelsau site.
